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2011 Income Tax Brackets

2011 income tax brackets 11. 2011 income tax brackets How To Get Tax Help Table of Contents Whether it's help with a tax issue, preparing your tax return or a need for a free publication or form, get the help you need the way you want it: online, use a smart phone, call or walk in to an IRS office or volunteer site near you. 2011 income tax brackets Free help with your tax return. 2011 income tax brackets You can get free help preparing your return nationwide from IRS-certified volunteers. 2011 income tax brackets The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helps low-to-moderate income, elderly, people with disabilities, and limited English proficient taxpayers. 2011 income tax brackets The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program helps taxpayers age 60 and older with their tax returns. 2011 income tax brackets Most VITA and TCE sites offer free electronic filing and all volunteers will let you know about credits and deductions you may be entitled to claim. 2011 income tax brackets In addition, some VITA and TCE sites provide taxpayers the opportunity to prepare their own return with help from an IRS-certified volunteer. 2011 income tax brackets To find the nearest VITA or TCE site, you can use the VITA Locator Tool on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov, download the IRS2Go app, or call 1-800-906-9887. 2011 income tax brackets As part of the TCE program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program. 2011 income tax brackets To find the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site, visit AARP's website at www. 2011 income tax brackets aarp. 2011 income tax brackets org/money/taxaide or call 1-888-227-7669. 2011 income tax brackets For more information on these programs, go to IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and enter “VITA” in the search box. 2011 income tax brackets Internet. 2011 income tax brackets IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and IRS2Go are ready when you are —24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 2011 income tax brackets Download the free IRS2Go app from the iTunes app store or from Google Play. 2011 income tax brackets Use it to check your refund status, order transcripts of your tax returns or tax account, watch the IRS YouTube channel, get IRS news as soon as it's released to the public, subscribe to filing season updates or daily tax tips, and follow the IRS Twitter news feed, @IRSnews, to get the latest federal tax news, including information about tax law changes and important IRS programs. 2011 income tax brackets Check the status of your 2013 refund with the Where's My Refund? application on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov or download the IRS2Go app and select the Refund Status option. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. 2011 income tax brackets Using these applications, you can start checking on the status of your return within 24 hours after we receive your e-filed return or 4 weeks after you mail a paper return. 2011 income tax brackets You will also be given a personalized refund date as soon as the IRS processes your tax return and approves your refund. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS updates Where's My Refund? every 24 hours, usually overnight, so you only need to check once a day. 2011 income tax brackets Use the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) to research your tax questions. 2011 income tax brackets No need to wait on the phone or stand in line. 2011 income tax brackets The ITA is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and provides you with a variety of tax information related to general filing topics, deductions, credits, and income. 2011 income tax brackets When you reach the response screen, you can print the entire interview and the final response for your records. 2011 income tax brackets New subject areas are added on a regular basis. 2011 income tax brackets Answers not provided through ITA may be found in Tax Trails, one of the Tax Topics on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov which contain general individual and business tax information or by searching the IRS Tax Map, which includes an international subject index. 2011 income tax brackets You can use the IRS Tax Map, to search publications and instructions by topic or keyword. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS Tax Map integrates forms and publications into one research tool and provides single-point access to tax law information by subject. 2011 income tax brackets When the user searches the IRS Tax Map, they will be provided with links to related content in existing IRS publications, forms and instructions, questions and answers, and Tax Topics. 2011 income tax brackets Coming this filing season, you can immediately view and print for free all 5 types of individual federal tax transcripts (tax returns, tax account, record of account, wage and income statement, and certification of non-filing) using Get Transcript. 2011 income tax brackets You can also ask the IRS to mail a return or an account transcript to you. 2011 income tax brackets Only the mail option is available by choosing the Tax Records option on the IRS2Go app by selecting Mail Transcript on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov or by calling 1-800-908-9946. 2011 income tax brackets Tax return and tax account transcripts are generally available for the current year and the past three years. 2011 income tax brackets Determine if you are eligible for the EITC and estimate the amount of the credit with the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Assistant. 2011 income tax brackets Visit Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter to get answers to questions about a notice or letter you received from the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets If you received the First Time Homebuyer Credit, you can use the First Time Homebuyer Credit Account Look-up tool for information on your repayments and account balance. 2011 income tax brackets Check the status of your amended return using Where's My Amended Return? Go to IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and enter Where's My Amended Return? in the search box. 2011 income tax brackets You can generally expect your amended return to be processed up to 12 weeks from the date we receive it. 2011 income tax brackets It can take up to 3 weeks from the date you mailed it to show up in our system. 2011 income tax brackets Make a payment using one of several safe and convenient electronic payment options available on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov. 2011 income tax brackets Select the Payment tab on the front page of IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov for more information. 2011 income tax brackets Determine if you are eligible and apply for an online payment agreement, if you owe more tax than you can pay today. 2011 income tax brackets Figure your income tax withholding with the IRS Withholding Calculator on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov. 2011 income tax brackets Use it if you've had too much or too little withheld, your personal situation has changed, you're starting a new job or you just want to see if you're having the right amount withheld. 2011 income tax brackets Determine if you might be subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax by using the Alternative Minimum Tax Assistant on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov. 2011 income tax brackets Request an Electronic Filing PIN by going to IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and entering Electronic Filing PIN in the search box. 2011 income tax brackets Download forms, instructions and publications, including accessible versions for people with disabilities. 2011 income tax brackets Locate the nearest Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) using the Office Locator tool on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov, or choose the Contact Us option on the IRS2Go app and search Local Offices. 2011 income tax brackets An employee can answer questions about your tax account or help you set up a payment plan. 2011 income tax brackets Before you visit, check the Office Locator on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov, or Local Offices under Contact Us on IRS2Go to confirm the address, phone number, days and hours of operation, and the services provided. 2011 income tax brackets If you have a special need, such as a disability, you can request an appointment. 2011 income tax brackets Call the local number listed in the Office Locator, or look in the phone book under United States Government, Internal Revenue Service. 2011 income tax brackets Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). 2011 income tax brackets Go to IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and enter Apply for an EIN in the search box. 2011 income tax brackets Read the Internal Revenue Code, regulations, or other official guidance. 2011 income tax brackets Read Internal Revenue Bulletins. 2011 income tax brackets Sign up to receive local and national tax news and more by email. 2011 income tax brackets Just click on “subscriptions” above the search box on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov and choose from a variety of options. 2011 income tax brackets Phone. 2011 income tax brackets You can call the IRS, or you can carry it in your pocket with the IRS2Go app on your smart phone or tablet. 2011 income tax brackets Download the free IRS2Go app from the iTunes app store or from Google Play. 2011 income tax brackets Call to locate the nearest volunteer help site, 1-800-906-9887 or you can use the VITA Locator Tool on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov, or download the IRS2Go app. 2011 income tax brackets Low-to-moderate income, elderly, people with disabilities, and limited English proficient taxpayers can get free help with their tax return from the nationwide Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. 2011 income tax brackets The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program helps taxpayers age 60 and older with their tax returns. 2011 income tax brackets Most VITA and TCE sites offer free electronic filing. 2011 income tax brackets Some VITA and TCE sites provide IRS-certified volunteers who can help prepare your tax return. 2011 income tax brackets Through the TCE program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program; call 1-888-227-7669 to find the nearest Tax-Aide location. 2011 income tax brackets Call the automated Where's My Refund? information hotline to check the status of your 2013 refund 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-829-1954. 2011 income tax brackets If you e-file, you can start checking on the status of your return within 24 hours after the IRS receives your tax return or 4 weeks after you've mailed a paper return. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. 2011 income tax brackets Where's My Refund? will give you a personalized refund date as soon as the IRS processes your tax return and approves your refund. 2011 income tax brackets Before you call this automated hotline, have your 2013 tax return handy so you can enter your social security number, your filing status, and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS updates Where's My Refund? every 24 hours, usually overnight, so you only need to check once a day. 2011 income tax brackets Note, the above information is for our automated hotline. 2011 income tax brackets Our live phone and walk-in assistors can research the status of your refund only if it's been 21 days or more since you filed electronically or more than 6 weeks since you mailed your paper return. 2011 income tax brackets Call the Amended Return Hotline, 1-866-464-2050, to check the status of your amended return. 2011 income tax brackets You can generally expect your amended return to be processed up to 12 weeks from the date we receive it. 2011 income tax brackets It can take up to 3 weeks from the date you mailed it to show up in our system. 2011 income tax brackets Call 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) to order current-year forms, instructions, publications, and prior-year forms and instructions (limited to 5 years). 2011 income tax brackets You should receive your order within 10 business days. 2011 income tax brackets Call TeleTax, 1-800-829-4477, to listen to pre-recorded messages covering general and business tax information. 2011 income tax brackets If, between January and April 15, you still have questions about the Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ (like filing requirements, dependents, credits, Schedule D, pensions and IRAs or self-employment taxes), call 1-800-829-1040. 2011 income tax brackets Call using TTY/TDD equipment, 1-800-829-4059 to ask tax questions or order forms and publications. 2011 income tax brackets The TTY/TDD telephone number is for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability. 2011 income tax brackets These individuals can also contact the IRS through relay services such as the Federal Relay Service. 2011 income tax brackets Walk-in. 2011 income tax brackets You can find a selection of forms, publications and services — in-person. 2011 income tax brackets Products. 2011 income tax brackets You can walk in to some post offices, libraries, and IRS offices to pick up certain forms, instructions, and publications. 2011 income tax brackets Some IRS offices, libraries, and city and county government offices have a collection of products available to photocopy from reproducible proofs. 2011 income tax brackets Services. 2011 income tax brackets You can walk in to your local TAC for face-to-face tax help. 2011 income tax brackets An employee can answer questions about your tax account or help you set up a payment plan. 2011 income tax brackets Before visiting, use the Office Locator tool on IRS. 2011 income tax brackets gov, or choose the Contact Us option on the IRS2Go app and search Local Offices for days and hours of operation, and services provided. 2011 income tax brackets Mail. 2011 income tax brackets You can send your order for forms, instructions, and publications to the address below. 2011 income tax brackets You should receive a response within 10 business days after your request is received. 2011 income tax brackets Internal Revenue Service 1201 N. 2011 income tax brackets Mitsubishi Motorway Bloomington, IL 61705-6613 The Taxpayer Advocate Service Is Here to Help You. 2011 income tax brackets The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is your voice at the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets Our job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and that you know and understand your rights. 2011 income tax brackets What can TAS do for you? We can offer you free help with IRS problems that you can't resolve on your own. 2011 income tax brackets We know this process can be confusing, but the worst thing you can do is nothing at all! TAS can help if you can't resolve your tax problem and: Your problem is causing financial difficulties for you, your family, or your business. 2011 income tax brackets You face (or your business is facing) an immediate threat of adverse action. 2011 income tax brackets You've tried repeatedly to contact the IRS but no one has responded, or the IRS hasn't responded by the date promised. 2011 income tax brackets If you qualify for our help, you'll be assigned to one advocate who'll be with you at every turn and will do everything possible to resolve your problem. 2011 income tax brackets Here's why we can help: TAS is an independent organization within the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets Our advocates know how to work with the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets Our services are free and tailored to meet your needs. 2011 income tax brackets We have offices in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. 2011 income tax brackets How can you reach us? If you think TAS can help you, call your local advocate, whose number is in your local directory and at Taxpayer Advocate, or call us toll-free at 1-877-777-4778. 2011 income tax brackets How else does TAS help taxpayers? TAS also works to resolve large-scale, systemic problems that affect many taxpayers. 2011 income tax brackets If you know of one of these broad issues, please report it to us through our Systemic Advocacy Management System. 2011 income tax brackets Low Income Taxpayer Clinics. 2011 income tax brackets Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) serve individuals whose income is below a certain level and need to resolve tax problems such as audits, appeals and tax collection disputes. 2011 income tax brackets Some clinics can provide information about taxpayer rights and responsibilities in different languages for individuals who speak English as a second language. 2011 income tax brackets Visit Taxpayer Advocate or see IRS Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List. 2011 income tax brackets Prev Up Next Home More Online Publications

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The 2011 Income Tax Brackets

2011 income tax brackets Publication 971 - Main Content Table of Contents How To Request ReliefException for agreements relating to TEFRA partnership proceedings. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS Must Contact Your Spouse or Former Spouse Tax Court Review of Request Community Property LawsRelief for Married Persons Who Did Not File Joint Returns Innocent Spouse ReliefUnderstated Tax Erroneous Items Actual Knowledge or Reason To Know Indications of Unfairness for Innocent Spouse Relief Separation of Liability ReliefLimitations on Relief Equitable ReliefConditions for Getting Equitable Relief Factors for Determining Whether To Grant Equitable Relief RefundsProof Required Refunds Under Equitable Relief Limit on Amount of Refund Filled-in Form 8857 Flowcharts How To Request Relief File Form 8857 to ask the IRS for the types of relief discussed in this publication. 2011 income tax brackets If you are requesting relief for more than three tax years, you must file an additional Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will review your Form 8857 and let you know if you qualify. 2011 income tax brackets A completed Form 8857 is shown later. 2011 income tax brackets When to file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets You should file Form 8857 as soon as you become aware of a tax liability for which you believe only your spouse or former spouse should be held responsible. 2011 income tax brackets The following are some of the ways you may become aware of such a liability. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS is examining your tax return and proposing to increase your tax liability. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS sends you a notice. 2011 income tax brackets You must file Form 8857 no later than two years after the date on which the IRS first attempted to collect the tax from you that occurs after July 22, 1998. 2011 income tax brackets (But see the exceptions below for different filing deadlines that apply. 2011 income tax brackets ) For this reason, do not delay filing because you do not have all the documentation. 2011 income tax brackets Collection activities that may start the 2-year period are: The IRS offset your income tax refund against an amount you owed on a joint return for another year and the IRS informed you about your right to file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets The filing of a claim by the IRS in a court proceeding in which you were a party or the filing of a claim in a proceeding that involves your property. 2011 income tax brackets This includes the filing of a proof of claim in a bankruptcy proceeding. 2011 income tax brackets The filing of a suit by the United States against you to collect the joint liability. 2011 income tax brackets The issuance of a section 6330 notice, which notifies you of the IRS' intent to levy and your right to a collection due process (CDP) hearing. 2011 income tax brackets The collection-related notices include, but are not limited to, Letter 11 and Letter 1058. 2011 income tax brackets Exception for equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets On July 25, 2011, the IRS issued Notice 2011-70 (available at www. 2011 income tax brackets irs. 2011 income tax brackets gov/irb/2011-32_IRB/ar11. 2011 income tax brackets html) expanding the amount of time to request equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets The amount of time to request equitable relief depends on whether you are seeking relief from a balance due, seeking a credit or refund, or both: Balance Due – Generally, you must file your request within the time period the IRS has to collect the tax. 2011 income tax brackets Generally, the IRS has 10 years from the date the tax liability was assessed to collect the tax. 2011 income tax brackets In certain cases, the 10-year period is suspended. 2011 income tax brackets The amount of time the suspension is in effect will extend the time the IRS has to collect the tax. 2011 income tax brackets See Pub. 2011 income tax brackets 594, The IRS Collection Process, for details. 2011 income tax brackets Credit or Refund – Generally, you must file your request within 3 years after the date the original return was filed or within 2 years after the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. 2011 income tax brackets But you may have more time to file if you live in a federally declared disaster area or you are physically or mentally unable to manage your financial affairs. 2011 income tax brackets See Pub. 2011 income tax brackets 556, Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund, for details. 2011 income tax brackets Both a Balance Due and a Credit or Refund – If you are seeking a refund of amounts you paid and relief from a balance due over and above what you have paid, the time period for credit or refund will apply to any payments you have made, and the time period for collection of a balance due amount will apply to any unpaid liability. 2011 income tax brackets Exception for relief based on community property laws. 2011 income tax brackets If you are requesting relief based on community property laws, a different filing deadline applies. 2011 income tax brackets See Relief from liability arising from community property law discussed later under Community Property Laws . 2011 income tax brackets Form 8857 filed by or on behalf of a decedent. 2011 income tax brackets An executor (including any other duly appointed representative) may pursue a Form 8857 filed during the decedent's lifetime. 2011 income tax brackets An executor (including any other duly appointed representative) may also file Form 8857 as long as the decedent satisfied the eligibility requirements while alive. 2011 income tax brackets For purposes of separation of liability relief (discussed later), the decedent's marital status is determined on the earlier of the date relief was requested or the date of death. 2011 income tax brackets Situations in which you are not entitled to relief. 2011 income tax brackets You are not entitled to innocent spouse relief for any tax year to which the following situations apply. 2011 income tax brackets In a final decision dated after July 22, 1998, a court considered whether to grant you relief from joint liability and decided not to do so. 2011 income tax brackets In a final decision dated after July 22, 1998, a court did not consider whether to grant you relief from joint liability, but you meaningfully participated in the proceeding and could have asked for relief. 2011 income tax brackets You entered into an offer in compromise with the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets You entered into a closing agreement with the IRS that disposed of the same liability for which you want to seek relief. 2011 income tax brackets Exception for agreements relating to TEFRA partnership proceedings. 2011 income tax brackets You may be entitled to relief, discussed in (4) earlier, if you entered into a closing agreement for both partnership items and nonpartnership items, while you were a party to a pending TEFRA partnership proceeding. 2011 income tax brackets (TEFRA is an acronym that refers to the “Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982” that prescribed the tax treatment of partnership items. 2011 income tax brackets ) You are not entitled to relief for the nonpartnership items, but you will be entitled to relief for the partnership items (if you otherwise qualify). 2011 income tax brackets Transferee liability not affected by innocent spouse relief provisions. 2011 income tax brackets The innocent spouse relief provisions do not affect tax liabilities that arise under federal or state transferee liability or property laws. 2011 income tax brackets Therefore, even if you are relieved of the tax liability under the innocent spouse relief provisions, you may remain liable for the unpaid tax, interest, and penalties to the extent provided by these laws. 2011 income tax brackets Example. 2011 income tax brackets Herb and Wanda timely filed their 2008 joint income tax return on April 15, 2009. 2011 income tax brackets Herb died in March 2010, and the executor of Herb's will transferred all of the estate's assets to Wanda. 2011 income tax brackets In August 2010, the IRS assessed a deficiency for the 2008 return. 2011 income tax brackets The items causing the deficiency belong to Herb. 2011 income tax brackets Wanda is relieved of the deficiency under the innocent spouse relief provisions, and Herb's estate remains solely liable for it. 2011 income tax brackets However, the IRS may collect the deficiency from Wanda to the extent permitted under federal or state transferee liability or property laws. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS Must Contact Your Spouse or Former Spouse By law, the IRS must contact your spouse or former spouse. 2011 income tax brackets There are no exceptions, even for victims of spousal abuse or domestic violence. 2011 income tax brackets We will inform your spouse or former spouse that you filed Form 8857 and will allow him or her to participate in the process. 2011 income tax brackets If you are requesting relief from joint and several liability on a joint return, the IRS must also inform him or her of its preliminary and final determinations regarding your request for relief. 2011 income tax brackets However, to protect your privacy, the IRS will not disclose your personal information (for example, your current name, address, phone number(s), information about your employer, your income or assets) or any other information that does not relate to making a determination about your request for relief from liability. 2011 income tax brackets If you petition the Tax Court (explained below), your spouse or former spouse may see your personal information. 2011 income tax brackets Tax Court Review of Request After you file Form 8857, you may be able to petition (ask) the United States Tax Court to review your request for relief in the following two situations. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS sends you a final determination letter regarding your request for relief. 2011 income tax brackets You do not receive a final determination letter from the IRS within six months from the date you filed Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets If you seek equitable relief for an underpaid tax, you will be able to get a Tax Court review of your request only if the tax arose or remained unpaid on or after December 20, 2006. 2011 income tax brackets The United States Tax Court is an independent judicial body and is not part of the IRS. 2011 income tax brackets You must file a petition with the United States Tax Court in order for it to review your request for relief. 2011 income tax brackets You must file the petition no later than the 90th day after the date the IRS mails its final determination notice to you. 2011 income tax brackets If you do not file a petition, or you file it late, the Tax Court cannot review your request for relief. 2011 income tax brackets You can get a copy of the rules for filing a petition by writing to the Tax Court at the following address: United States Tax Court 400 Second Street, NW Washington, DC 20217 Or you can visit the Tax Court's website at www. 2011 income tax brackets ustaxcourt. 2011 income tax brackets gov Community Property Laws You must generally follow community property laws when filing a tax return if you are married and live in a community property state. 2011 income tax brackets Community property states are Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. 2011 income tax brackets Generally, community property laws require you to allocate community income and expenses equally between both spouses. 2011 income tax brackets However, community property laws are not taken into account in determining whether an item belongs to you or to your spouse (or former spouse) for purposes of requesting any relief from liability. 2011 income tax brackets Relief for Married Persons Who Did Not File Joint Returns Married persons who live in community property states, but who did not file joint returns, have two ways to get relief. 2011 income tax brackets Relief From Liability Arising From Community Property Law You are not responsible for the tax relating to an item of community income if all the following conditions exist. 2011 income tax brackets You did not file a joint return for the tax year. 2011 income tax brackets You did not include the item of community income in gross income. 2011 income tax brackets The item of community income you did not include is one of the following: Wages, salaries, and other compensation your spouse (or former spouse) received for services he or she performed as an employee. 2011 income tax brackets Income your spouse (or former spouse) derived from a trade or business he or she operated as a sole proprietor. 2011 income tax brackets Your spouse's (or former spouse's) distributive share of partnership income. 2011 income tax brackets Income from your spouse's (or former spouse's) separate property (other than income described in (a), (b), or (c)). 2011 income tax brackets Use the appropriate community property law to determine what is separate property. 2011 income tax brackets Any other income that belongs to your spouse (or former spouse) under community property law. 2011 income tax brackets You establish that you did not know of, and had no reason to know of, that community income. 2011 income tax brackets See Actual Knowledge or Reason To Know , below. 2011 income tax brackets Under all facts and circumstances, it would not be fair to include the item of community income in your gross income. 2011 income tax brackets See Indications of unfairness for liability arising from community property law, later. 2011 income tax brackets Actual knowledge or reason to know. 2011 income tax brackets You knew or had reason to know of an item of community income if: You actually knew of the item of community income, or A reasonable person in similar circumstances would have known of the item of community income. 2011 income tax brackets Amount of community income unknown. 2011 income tax brackets If you are aware of the source of the item of community income or the income-producing activity, but are unaware of the specific amount, you are considered to know or have reason to know of the item of community income. 2011 income tax brackets Not knowing the specific amount is not a basis for relief. 2011 income tax brackets Reason to know. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will consider all facts and circumstances in determining whether you had reason to know of an item of community income. 2011 income tax brackets The facts and circumstances include: The nature of the item of community income and the amount of the item relative to other income items. 2011 income tax brackets The financial situation of you and your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets Your educational background and business experience. 2011 income tax brackets Whether the item of community income represented a departure from a recurring pattern reflected in prior years' returns (for example, omitted income from an investment regularly reported on prior years' returns). 2011 income tax brackets Indications of unfairness for liability arising from community property law. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will consider all of the facts and circumstances of the case in order to determine whether it is unfair to hold you responsible for the understated tax due to the item of community income. 2011 income tax brackets The following are examples of factors the IRS will consider. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you received a benefit, either directly or indirectly, from the omitted item of community income (defined below). 2011 income tax brackets Whether your spouse (or former spouse) deserted you. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you and your spouse have been divorced or separated. 2011 income tax brackets For other factors see Factors for Determining Whether To Grant Equitable Relief later. 2011 income tax brackets Benefit from omitted item of community income. 2011 income tax brackets A benefit includes normal support, but does not include de minimis (small) amounts. 2011 income tax brackets Evidence of a direct or indirect benefit may consist of transfers of property or rights to property, including transfers received several years after the filing of the return. 2011 income tax brackets For example, if you receive property, including life insurance proceeds, from your spouse (or former spouse) and the property is traceable to omitted items of community income attributable to your spouse (or former spouse), you are considered to have benefitted from those omitted items of community income. 2011 income tax brackets Equitable Relief If you do not qualify for the relief described above and are now liable for an underpaid or understated tax you believe should be paid only by your spouse (or former spouse), you may request equitable relief (discussed later). 2011 income tax brackets How and When To Request Relief You request relief by filing Form 8857, as discussed earlier. 2011 income tax brackets Fill in Form 8857 according to the instructions. 2011 income tax brackets For relief from liability arising from community property law, you must file Form 8857 no later than 6 months before the expiration of the period of limitations on assessment (including extensions) against your spouse for the tax year for which you are requesting relief. 2011 income tax brackets However, if the IRS begins an examination of your return during that 6-month period, the latest time for requesting relief is 30 days after the date the IRS' initial contact letter to you. 2011 income tax brackets The period of limitation on assessment is the amount of time, generally three years, that the IRS has from the date you filed the return to assess taxes that you owe. 2011 income tax brackets Innocent Spouse Relief By requesting innocent spouse relief, you can be relieved of responsibility for paying tax, interest, and penalties if your spouse (or former spouse) improperly reported items or omitted items on your tax return. 2011 income tax brackets Generally, the tax, interest, and penalties that qualify for relief can only be collected from your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets However, you are jointly and individually responsible for any tax, interest, and penalties that do not qualify for relief. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS can collect these amounts from either you or your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets You must meet all of the following conditions to qualify for innocent spouse relief. 2011 income tax brackets You filed a joint return. 2011 income tax brackets There is an understated tax on the return that is due to erroneous items (defined later) of your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets You can show that when you signed the joint return you did not know, and had no reason to know, that the understated tax existed (or the extent to which the understated tax existed). 2011 income tax brackets See Actual Knowledge or Reason To Know, later. 2011 income tax brackets Taking into account all the facts and circumstances, it would be unfair to hold you liable for the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets See Indications of Unfairness for Innocent Spouse Relief , later. 2011 income tax brackets Innocent spouse relief will not be granted if the IRS proves that you and your spouse (or former spouse) transferred property to one another as part of a fraudulent scheme. 2011 income tax brackets A fraudulent scheme includes a scheme to defraud the IRS or another third party, such as a creditor, former spouse, or business partner. 2011 income tax brackets Understated Tax You have an understated tax if the IRS determined that your total tax should be more than the amount that was actually shown on your return. 2011 income tax brackets Erroneous Items Erroneous items are either of the following. 2011 income tax brackets Unreported income. 2011 income tax brackets This is any gross income item received by your spouse (or former spouse) that is not reported. 2011 income tax brackets Incorrect deduction, credit, or basis. 2011 income tax brackets This is any improper deduction, credit, or property basis claimed by your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets The following are examples of erroneous items. 2011 income tax brackets The expense for which the deduction is taken was never paid or incurred. 2011 income tax brackets For example, your spouse, a cash-basis taxpayer, deducted $10,000 of advertising expenses on Schedule C of your joint Form 1040, but never paid for any advertising. 2011 income tax brackets The expense does not qualify as a deductible expense. 2011 income tax brackets For example, your spouse claimed a business fee deduction of $10,000 that was for the payment of state fines. 2011 income tax brackets Fines are not deductible. 2011 income tax brackets No factual argument can be made to support the deductibility of the expense. 2011 income tax brackets For example, your spouse claimed $4,000 for security costs related to a home office, which were actually veterinary and food costs for your family's two dogs. 2011 income tax brackets Actual Knowledge or Reason To Know You knew or had reason to know of an understated tax if: You actually knew of the understated tax, or A reasonable person in similar circumstances would have known of the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets Actual knowledge. 2011 income tax brackets If you actually knew about an erroneous item that belongs to your spouse (or former spouse), the relief discussed here does not apply to any part of the understated tax due to that item. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse (or former spouse) remain jointly liable for that part of the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets For information about the criteria for determining whether you actually knew about an erroneous item, see Actual Knowledge later under Separation of Liability Relief. 2011 income tax brackets Reason to know. 2011 income tax brackets If you had reason to know about an erroneous item that belongs to your spouse (or former spouse), the relief discussed here does not apply to any part of the understated tax due to that item. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse (or former spouse) remain jointly liable for that part of the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will consider all facts and circumstances in determining whether you had reason to know of an understated tax due to an erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets The facts and circumstances include: The nature of the erroneous item and the amount of the erroneous item relative to other items. 2011 income tax brackets The financial situation of you and your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets Your educational background and business experience. 2011 income tax brackets The extent of your participation in the activity that resulted in the erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you failed to ask, at or before the time the return was signed, about items on the return or omitted from the return that a reasonable person would question. 2011 income tax brackets Whether the erroneous item represented a departure from a recurring pattern reflected in prior years' returns (for example, omitted income from an investment regularly reported on prior years' returns). 2011 income tax brackets Partial relief when a portion of erroneous item is unknown. 2011 income tax brackets You may qualify for partial relief if, at the time you filed your return, you had no knowledge or reason to know of only a portion of an erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets You will be relieved of the understated tax due to that portion of the item if all other requirements are met for that portion. 2011 income tax brackets Example. 2011 income tax brackets At the time you signed your joint return, you knew that your spouse did not report $5,000 of gambling winnings. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS examined your tax return several months after you filed it and determined that your spouse's unreported gambling winnings were actually $25,000. 2011 income tax brackets You established that you did not know about, and had no reason to know about, the additional $20,000 because of the way your spouse handled gambling winnings. 2011 income tax brackets The understated tax due to the $20,000 will qualify for innocent spouse relief if you meet the other requirements. 2011 income tax brackets The understated tax due to the $5,000 of gambling winnings you knew about will not qualify for relief. 2011 income tax brackets Indications of Unfairness for Innocent Spouse Relief The IRS will consider all of the facts and circumstances of the case in order to determine whether it is unfair to hold you responsible for the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets The following are examples of factors the IRS will consider. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you received a significant benefit (defined below), either directly or indirectly, from the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets Whether your spouse (or former spouse) deserted you. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you and your spouse have been divorced or separated. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you received a benefit on the return from the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets For other factors, see Factors for Determining Whether To Grant Equitable Relief later under Equitable Relief. 2011 income tax brackets Significant benefit. 2011 income tax brackets A significant benefit is any benefit in excess of normal support. 2011 income tax brackets Normal support depends on your particular circumstances. 2011 income tax brackets Evidence of a direct or indirect benefit may consist of transfers of property or rights to property, including transfers that may be received several years after the year of the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets Example. 2011 income tax brackets You receive money from your spouse that is beyond normal support. 2011 income tax brackets The money can be traced to your spouse's lottery winnings that were not reported on your joint return. 2011 income tax brackets You will be considered to have received a significant benefit from that income. 2011 income tax brackets This is true even if your spouse gives you the money several years after he or she received it. 2011 income tax brackets Separation of Liability Relief Under this type of relief, the understated tax (plus interest and penalties) on your joint return is allocated between you and your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets The understated tax allocated to you is generally the amount you are responsible for. 2011 income tax brackets This type of relief is available only for unpaid liabilities resulting from the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets Refunds are not allowed. 2011 income tax brackets To request separation of liability relief, you must have filed a joint return and meet either of the following requirements at the time you file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets You are no longer married to, or are legally separated from, the spouse with whom you filed the joint return for which you are requesting relief. 2011 income tax brackets (Under this rule, you are no longer married if you are widowed. 2011 income tax brackets ) You were not a member of the same household (explained below) as the spouse with whom you filed the joint return at any time during the 12-month per- iod ending on the date you file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets Members of the same household. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse are not members of the same household if you are living apart and are estranged. 2011 income tax brackets However, you and your spouse are considered members of the same household if any of the following conditions are met. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse reside in the same dwelling. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse reside in separate dwellings but are not estranged, and one of you is temporarily absent from the other's household as explained in (3) below. 2011 income tax brackets Either spouse is temporarily absent from the household and it is reasonable to assume that the absent spouse will return to the household, and the household or a substantially equivalent household is maintained in anticipation of the absent spouse's return. 2011 income tax brackets Examples of temporary absences include absence due to imprisonment, illness, business, vacation, military service, or education. 2011 income tax brackets Burden of proof. 2011 income tax brackets You must be able to prove that you meet all of the requirements for separation of liability relief (except actual knowledge) and that you did not transfer property to avoid tax (discussed later). 2011 income tax brackets You must also establish the basis for allocating the erroneous items. 2011 income tax brackets Limitations on Relief Even if you meet the requirements discussed previously, separation of liability relief will not be granted in the following situations. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS proves that you and your spouse (or former spouse) transferred assets to one another as part of a fraudulent scheme. 2011 income tax brackets A fraudulent scheme includes a scheme to defraud the IRS or another third party, such as a creditor, former spouse, or business partner. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS proves that at the time you signed your joint return, you had actual knowledge (explained below) of any erroneous items giving rise to the deficiency that were allocable to your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets For the definition of erroneous items, see Erroneous Items earlier under Innocent Spouse Relief. 2011 income tax brackets Your spouse (or former spouse) transferred property to you to avoid tax or the payment of tax. 2011 income tax brackets See Transfers of Property To Avoid Tax , later. 2011 income tax brackets Actual Knowledge The relief discussed here does not apply to any part of the understated tax due to your spouse's (or former spouse's) erroneous items of which you had actual knowledge. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse (or former spouse) remain jointly and severally liable for this part of the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets If you had actual knowledge of only a portion of an erroneous item, the IRS will not grant relief for that portion of the item. 2011 income tax brackets You had actual knowledge of an erroneous item if: You knew that an item of unreported income was received. 2011 income tax brackets (This rule applies whether or not there was a receipt of cash. 2011 income tax brackets ) You knew of the facts that made an incorrect deduction or credit unallowable. 2011 income tax brackets For a false or inflated deduction, you knew that the expense was not incurred, or not incurred to the extent shown on the tax return. 2011 income tax brackets Knowledge of the source of an erroneous item is not sufficient to establish actual knowledge. 2011 income tax brackets Also, your actual knowledge may not be inferred when you merely had a reason to know of the erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets Similarly, the IRS does not have to establish that you knew of the source of an erroneous item in order to establish that you had actual knowledge of the item itself. 2011 income tax brackets Your actual knowledge of the proper tax treatment of an erroneous item is not relevant for purposes of demonstrating that you had actual knowledge of that item. 2011 income tax brackets Neither is your actual knowledge of how the erroneous item was treated on the tax return. 2011 income tax brackets For example, if you knew that your spouse received dividend income, relief is not available for that income even if you did not know it was taxable. 2011 income tax brackets Example. 2011 income tax brackets Bill and Karen Green filed a joint return showing Karen's wages of $50,000 and Bill's self-employment income of $10,000. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS audited their return and found that Bill did not report $20,000 of self-employment income. 2011 income tax brackets The additional income resulted in a $6,000 understated tax, plus interest and penalties. 2011 income tax brackets After obtaining a legal separation from Bill, Karen filed Form 8857 to request separation of liability relief. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS proved that Karen actually knew about the $20,000 of additional income at the time she signed the joint return. 2011 income tax brackets Bill is liable for all of the understated tax, interest, and penalties because all of it was due to his unreported income. 2011 income tax brackets Karen is also liable for the understated tax, interest, and penalties due to the $20,000 of unreported income because she actually knew of the item. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS can collect the entire $6,000 plus interest and penalties from either Karen or Bill because they are jointly and individually liable for it. 2011 income tax brackets Factors supporting actual knowledge. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS may rely on all facts and circumstances in determining whether you actually knew of an erroneous item at the time you signed the return. 2011 income tax brackets The following are examples of factors the IRS may use. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you made a deliberate effort to avoid learning about the item in order to be shielded from liability. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you and your spouse (or former spouse) jointly owned the property that resulted in the erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets Exception for spousal abuse or domestic violence. 2011 income tax brackets Even if you had actual knowledge, you may still qualify for relief if you establish that: You were the victim of spousal abuse or domestic violence before signing the return, and Because of that abuse, you did not challenge the treatment of any items on the return because you were afraid your spouse (or former spouse) would retaliate against you. 2011 income tax brackets If you establish that you signed your joint return under duress (threat of harm or other form of coercion), then it is not a joint return, and you are not liable for any tax shown on that return or any tax deficiency for that return. 2011 income tax brackets However, you may be required to file a separate return for that tax year. 2011 income tax brackets For more information about duress, see the instructions for Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets Transfers of Property To Avoid Tax If your spouse (or former spouse) transfers property (or the right to property) to you for the main purpose of avoiding tax or payment of tax, the tax liability allocated to you will be increased by the fair market value of the property on the date of the transfer. 2011 income tax brackets The increase may not be more than the entire amount of the liability. 2011 income tax brackets A transfer will be presumed to have as its main purpose the avoidance of tax or payment of tax if the transfer is made after the date that is 1 year before the date on which the IRS sent its first letter of proposed deficiency. 2011 income tax brackets This presumption will not apply if: The transfer was made under a divorce decree, separate maintenance agreement, or a written instrument incident to such an agreement, or You establish that the transfer did not have as its main purpose the avoidance of tax or payment of tax. 2011 income tax brackets If the presumption does not apply, but the IRS can establish that the purpose of the transfer was the avoidance of tax or payment of tax, the tax liability allocated to you will be increased as explained above. 2011 income tax brackets Equitable Relief If you do not qualify for innocent spouse relief, separation of liability relief, or relief from liability arising from community property law, you may still be relieved of responsibility for tax, interest, and penalties through equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets Unlike innocent spouse relief or separation of liability relief, you can get equitable relief from an understated tax (defined earlier under Innocent Spouse Relief ) or an underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets An underpaid tax is an amount of tax you properly reported on your return but you have not paid. 2011 income tax brackets For example, your joint 2009 return shows that you and your spouse owed $5,000. 2011 income tax brackets You paid $2,000 with the return. 2011 income tax brackets You have an underpaid tax of $3,000. 2011 income tax brackets Conditions for Getting Equitable Relief You may qualify for equitable relief if you meet all of the following conditions. 2011 income tax brackets You are not eligible for innocent spouse relief, separation of liability relief, or relief from liability arising from community property law. 2011 income tax brackets You have an understated tax or an underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets You did not pay the tax. 2011 income tax brackets However, see Refunds , later, for situations in which you are entitled to a refund of payments you made. 2011 income tax brackets You establish that, taking into account all the facts and circumstances, it would be unfair to hold you liable for the understated or underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets See Factors for Determining Whether To Grant Equitable Relief, later. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse (or former spouse) did not transfer assets to one another as a part of a fraudulent scheme. 2011 income tax brackets A fraudulent scheme includes a scheme to defraud the IRS or another third party, such as a creditor, former spouse, or business partner. 2011 income tax brackets Your spouse (or former spouse) did not transfer property to you for the main purpose of avoiding tax or the payment of tax. 2011 income tax brackets See Transfers of Property To Avoid Tax, earlier, under Separation of Liability Relief. 2011 income tax brackets You did not file or fail to file your return with the intent to commit fraud. 2011 income tax brackets The income tax liability from which you seek relief must be attributable to an item of the spouse (or former spouse) with whom you filed the joint return, unless one of the following exceptions applies: The item is attributable or partially attributable to you solely due to the operation of community property law. 2011 income tax brackets If you meet this exception, that item will be considered attributable to your spouse (or former spouse) for purposes of equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets If the item is titled in your name, the item is presumed to be attributable to you. 2011 income tax brackets However, you can rebut this presumption based on the facts and circumstances. 2011 income tax brackets You did not know, and had no reason to know, that funds intended for the payment of tax were misappropriated by your spouse (or former spouse) for his or her benefit. 2011 income tax brackets If you meet this exception, the IRS will consider granting equitable relief although the underpaid tax may be attributable in part or in full to your item, and only to the extent the funds intended for payment were taken by your spouse (or former spouse). 2011 income tax brackets You establish that you were the victim of spousal abuse or domestic violence before signing the return, and that, as a result of the prior abuse, you did not challenge the treatment of any items on the return for fear of your spouse's (or former spouse's) retaliation. 2011 income tax brackets If you meet this exception, relief will be considered although the understated tax or underpaid tax may be attributable in part or in full to your item. 2011 income tax brackets Factors for Determining Whether To Grant Equitable Relief The IRS will consider all of the facts and circumstances in order to determine whether it is unfair to hold you responsible for the understated or underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets The following are examples of factors that the IRS will consider to determine whether to grant equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will consider all factors and weigh them appropriately. 2011 income tax brackets Relevant Factors The following are examples of factors that may be relevant to whether the IRS will grant equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you are separated (whether legally or not) or divorced from your spouse. 2011 income tax brackets A temporary absence, such as an absence due to imprisonment, illness, business, vacation, military service, or education, is not considered separation for this purpose. 2011 income tax brackets A temporary absence is one where it is reasonable to assume that the absent spouse will return to the household, and the household or a substantially equivalent household is maintained in anticipation of the absent spouse's return. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you would suffer a significant economic hardship if relief is not granted. 2011 income tax brackets (In other words, you would not be able to pay your reasonable basic living expenses. 2011 income tax brackets ) Whether you have a legal obligation under a divorce decree or agreement to pay the tax. 2011 income tax brackets This factor will not weigh in favor of relief if you knew or had reason to know, when entering into the divorce decree or agreement, that your former spouse would not pay the income tax liability. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you received a significant benefit (beyond normal support) from the underpaid tax or item causing the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets (For a definition of significant benefit, see Indications of Unfairness for Innocent Spouse Relief earlier. 2011 income tax brackets ) Whether you have made a good faith effort to comply with federal income tax laws for the tax year for which you are requesting relief or the following years. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you knew or had reason to know about the items causing the understated tax or that the tax would not be paid, as explained next. 2011 income tax brackets Knowledge or reason to know. 2011 income tax brackets In the case of an underpaid tax, the IRS will consider whether you did not know and had no reason to know that your spouse (or former spouse) would not pay the income tax liability. 2011 income tax brackets In the case of an income tax liability that arose from an understated tax, the IRS will consider whether you did not know and had no reason to know of the item causing the understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets Reason to know of the item giving rise to the understated tax will not be weighed more heavily than other factors. 2011 income tax brackets Actual knowledge of the item giving rise to the understated tax, however, is a strong factor weighing against relief. 2011 income tax brackets This strong factor may be overcome if the factors in favor of equitable relief are particularly compelling. 2011 income tax brackets Reason to know. 2011 income tax brackets In determining whether you had reason to know, the IRS will consider your level of education, any deceit or evasiveness of your spouse (or former spouse), your degree of involvement in the activity generating the income tax liability, your involvement in business and household financial matters, your business or financial expertise, and any lavish or unusual expenditures compared with past spending levels. 2011 income tax brackets Example. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse filed a joint 2009 return. 2011 income tax brackets That return showed you owed $10,000. 2011 income tax brackets You had $5,000 of your own money and you took out a loan to pay the other $5,000. 2011 income tax brackets You gave 2 checks for $5,000 each to your spouse to pay the $10,000 liability. 2011 income tax brackets Without telling you, your spouse took the $5,000 loan and spent it on himself. 2011 income tax brackets You and your spouse were divorced in 2010. 2011 income tax brackets In addition, you had no knowledge or reason to know at the time you signed the return that the tax would not be paid. 2011 income tax brackets These facts indicate to the IRS that it may be unfair to hold you liable for the $5,000 underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets The IRS will consider these facts, together with all of the other facts and circumstances, to determine whether to grant you equitable relief from the $5,000 underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets Factors Weighing in Favor of Equitable Relief The following are examples of factors that will weigh in favor of equitable relief, but will not weigh against equitable relief. 2011 income tax brackets Whether your spouse (or former spouse) abused you. 2011 income tax brackets Whether you were in poor mental or physical health on the date you signed the return or at the time you requested relief. 2011 income tax brackets Refunds If you are granted relief, refunds are: Permitted under innocent spouse relief as explained later under Limit on Amount of Refund . 2011 income tax brackets Not permitted under separation of liability relief. 2011 income tax brackets Permitted in limited circumstances under equitable relief, as explained under Refunds Under Equitable Relief. 2011 income tax brackets Proof Required The IRS will only refund payments you made with your own money. 2011 income tax brackets However, you must provide proof that you made the payments with your own money. 2011 income tax brackets Examples of proof are a copy of your bank statement or a canceled check. 2011 income tax brackets No proof is required if your individual refund was used by the IRS to pay a tax you owed on a joint tax return for another year. 2011 income tax brackets Refunds Under Equitable Relief In the following situations, you are eligible to receive a refund of certain payments you made. 2011 income tax brackets Underpaid tax. 2011 income tax brackets If you are granted relief for an underpaid tax, you are eligible for a refund of separate payments that you made after July 22, 1998. 2011 income tax brackets However, you are not eligible for refunds of payments made with the joint return, joint payments, or payments that your spouse (or former spouse) made. 2011 income tax brackets For example, withholding tax and estimated tax payments cannot be refunded because they are considered made with the joint return. 2011 income tax brackets The amount of the refund is subject to the limit discussed later under Limit on Amount of Refund. 2011 income tax brackets Understated tax. 2011 income tax brackets If you are granted relief for an understated tax, you are eligible for a refund of certain payments made under an installment agreement that you entered into with the IRS, if you have not defaulted on the installment agreement. 2011 income tax brackets You are not in default if the IRS did not issue you a notice of default or take any action to end the installment agreement. 2011 income tax brackets Only installment payments made after the date you filed Form 8857 are eligible for a refund. 2011 income tax brackets The amount of the refund is subject to the limit discussed next. 2011 income tax brackets Limit on Amount of Refund The amount of your refund is limited. 2011 income tax brackets Read the following chart to find out the limit. 2011 income tax brackets IF you file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets . 2011 income tax brackets . 2011 income tax brackets THEN the refund cannot be more than. 2011 income tax brackets . 2011 income tax brackets . 2011 income tax brackets Within 3 years after filing your return The part of the tax paid within 3 years (plus any extension of time for filing your return) before you filed Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets After the 3-year period, but within 2 years from the time you paid the tax The tax you paid within 2 years immediately before you filed Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets Filled-in Form 8857 This part explains how Janie Boulder fills out Form 8857 to request innocent spouse relief. 2011 income tax brackets Janie and Joe Boulder filed a joint tax return for 2007. 2011 income tax brackets They claimed one dependency exemption for their son Michael. 2011 income tax brackets Their return was adjusted by the IRS because Joe did not report a $5,000 award he won that year. 2011 income tax brackets Janie did not know about the award when the return was filed. 2011 income tax brackets They agreed to the adjustment but could not pay the additional amount due of $815 ($650 tax + $165 penalty and interest). 2011 income tax brackets Janie and Joe were divorced on May 13, 2009. 2011 income tax brackets In February 2010, Janie filed her 2009 federal income tax return as head of household. 2011 income tax brackets She expected a refund of $1,203. 2011 income tax brackets In May 2010, she received a notice informing her that the IRS had offset her refund against the $815 owed on her joint 2007 income tax return and that she had a right to file Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets Janie applies the conditions listed earlier under Innocent Spouse Relief to see if she qualifies for relief. 2011 income tax brackets Janie meets the first and second conditions because the joint tax return they filed has an understated tax due to Joe's erroneous item. 2011 income tax brackets Janie believes she meets the third condition. 2011 income tax brackets She did not know about the award and had no reason to know about it because of the secretive way Joe conducted his financial affairs. 2011 income tax brackets Janie believes she meets the fourth condition. 2011 income tax brackets She believes it would be unfair to be held liable for the tax because she did not benefit from the award. 2011 income tax brackets Joe spent it on personal items for his use only. 2011 income tax brackets Because Janie believes she qualifies for innocent spouse relief, she first completes Part I of Form 8857 to determine if she should file the form. 2011 income tax brackets In Part I, she makes all entries under the Tax Year 1 column because she is requesting relief for only one year. 2011 income tax brackets Part I Line 1. 2011 income tax brackets She enters “2007” on line 1 because this is the tax year for which she is requesting relief. 2011 income tax brackets Line 2. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the box because she wants a refund. 2011 income tax brackets Note. 2011 income tax brackets Because the IRS used her individual refund to pay the tax owed on the joint tax return, she does not need to provide proof of payment. 2011 income tax brackets Line 3. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because the IRS did not use her share of a joint refund to pay Joe's past-due debts. 2011 income tax brackets Line 4. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “Yes” box because she filed a joint tax return for tax year 2007. 2011 income tax brackets Line 5. 2011 income tax brackets She skips this line because she checked the “Yes” box on line 4. 2011 income tax brackets Part II Line 6. 2011 income tax brackets She enters her name, address, social security number, county, and best daytime phone number. 2011 income tax brackets Part III Line 7. 2011 income tax brackets She enters Joe's name, address, social security number, and best daytime phone number. 2011 income tax brackets Line 8. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “divorced since” box and enters the date she was divorced as “05/13/2009. 2011 income tax brackets ” She attaches a copy of her entire divorce decree (not Illustrated) to the form. 2011 income tax brackets Line 9. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the box for “High school diploma, equivalent, or less,” because she had completed high school when her 2007 joint tax return was filed. 2011 income tax brackets Line 10. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because she was not a victim of spousal abuse or domestic violence. 2011 income tax brackets Line 11. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because neither she nor Joe incurred any large expenses during the year for which she wants relief. 2011 income tax brackets Line 12. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “Yes” box because she signed the 2007 joint tax return. 2011 income tax brackets Line 13. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because she did not have a mental or physical condition when the return was filed and does not have one now. 2011 income tax brackets Part IV Line 14. 2011 income tax brackets Because she was not involved in preparing the return, she checks the box, “You were not involved in preparing the returns. 2011 income tax brackets ” Line 15. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the box, “You did not know anything was incorrect or missing” because she did not know that Joe had received a $5,000 award. 2011 income tax brackets She explains this in the space provided. 2011 income tax brackets Line 16. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the box, “You knew that person had income” because she knew Joe had income from wages. 2011 income tax brackets She also lists Joe's income. 2011 income tax brackets Under “Type of Income” she enters “wages. 2011 income tax brackets ” Under “Who paid it to that person,” she enters the name of Joe's employer, “Allied. 2011 income tax brackets ” Under “Tax Year 1” she enters the amount of Joe's wages, “$40,000. 2011 income tax brackets ” Because she is only requesting relief for one tax year, she leaves the entry spaces for “Tax Year 2” and “Tax Year 3” blank. 2011 income tax brackets Line 17. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because she did not know any amount was owed to the IRS when the 2007 return was signed. 2011 income tax brackets Line 18. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because, when the return was signed, she was not having financial problems. 2011 income tax brackets Line 19. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the box, “You were not involved in handling money for the household” because Joe handled all the money for the household. 2011 income tax brackets She provides additional information in the space provided. 2011 income tax brackets Line 20. 2011 income tax brackets She checks the “No” box because Joe has never transferred money or property to her. 2011 income tax brackets Part V Line 21. 2011 income tax brackets She enters the number “1” on both the line for “Adults” and the line for “Children” because her current household consists of herself and her son. 2011 income tax brackets Line 22. 2011 income tax brackets She enters her average monthly income for her entire household. 2011 income tax brackets Line 23. 2011 income tax brackets She lists her assets, which are $500 for the fair market value of a car, $450 in her checking account, and $100 in her savings account. 2011 income tax brackets Signing and mailing Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets Janie signs and dates the form. 2011 income tax brackets She attaches the copy of her divorce decree (not illustrated) required by line 8. 2011 income tax brackets Finally, she sends the form to the IRS address or fax number shown in the instructions for Form 8857. 2011 income tax brackets This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. 2011 income tax brackets Please click the link to view the image. 2011 income tax brackets Boulder's filled-in Form 8857 page 1 This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. 2011 income tax brackets Please click the link to view the image. 2011 income tax brackets Boulder's filled-in Form 8857 page 2 This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. 2011 income tax brackets Please click the link to view the image. 2011 income tax brackets Boulder's filled-in Form 8857 page 3 This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. 2011 income tax brackets Please click the link to view the image. 2011 income tax brackets Boulder's filled-in Form 8857 page 4 Flowcharts The following flowcharts provide a quick way for determining whether you may qualify for relief. 2011 income tax brackets But do not rely on these flowcharts alone. 2011 income tax brackets Also read the earlier discussions. 2011 income tax brackets Figure A. 2011 income tax brackets Do You Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief? Please click here for the text description of the image. 2011 income tax brackets "Do You Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief?" Figure B. 2011 income tax brackets Do You Qualify for Separation of Liability Relief? Please click here for the text description of the image. 2011 income tax brackets "Do You Qualify for Separation of Liability Relief?" Figure C. 2011 income tax brackets Do You Qualify for Equitable Relief? This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. 2011 income tax brackets Please click the link to view the image. 2011 income tax brackets "Do You Qualify for Equitable Relief?" Prev Up Next Home More Online Publications